News & Events

Dr. Robert Mathner and Colleagues Publish in Recreational Sports Journal

Dr. Robert P. Mathner, Assistant Professor in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion, recently published an article in Recreational Sports Journal. The article was co-authored by Dr. Christina Martin (also an Assistant Professor in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion), Mr. Shane Tatum (Coordinator of Facilities/Recreation), and Mr. Deepak Chouti (Graduate student, Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion).
The article, titled "The Effects of a Sportsmanship Education Program on the Behavior of College Intramural Sports Participants" was published in the Fall 2010 edition of the journal, and examined the potential impact of a sportsmanship education program on the behaviors of students participating in collegiate intramural sports.

Dr. Anthony Dixon is a new faculty member in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion as an Assistant Professor of Sport & Fitness Management. Prior to joining Troy University, Dr. Dixon was an Assistant Professor of Sport Management and Marketing at Marshall University in West Virginia. In May 2009, Dr. Dixon earned his doctoral degree from Clemson University in Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management with an emphasis in Sport Management and Tourism. Dr. Dixon earned his Master of Business Administration from East Carolina University with an emphasis in Strategic Management and Marketing in 2002. He also possesses a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington.

Dr. Dixon's research interests are related to the use of sport and tourism as economic development strategies, various aspects of fans' experience, and salient attributes to individuals in event selection and activity participation. Dr. Dixon and his wife, Harriet, have a son, Andrew, a daughter, Beth, and are expecting their third child.

KHP Department Representatives Help Oil Spill in the Gulf

Dr. Michael Green, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion, and Eriko Kubo, a recent graduate of the Sport and Fitness Management program, went to the Mobile area on July 31 to assist with relief efforts relating to the BP oil spill that has affected the area.

Participating in an effort organized by the Troy employees of CGI and the Bay Area Food Bank, Green and Kubo boarded a chartered coach with other Troy residents, business owners, and CGI employees, and headed to Bayou le Batre and Coden, both towns in coastal Alabama that have seen their economies affected by the spill.

Approximately 250 families were provided with much needed food that was purchased by CGI through the Bay Area Food Bank. The Bay Area Food Bank operates by obtaining food from local businesses such as Walmart and then selling it at cost to various philanthropic organizations such as churches and charities. On this occasion, CGI purchased the food and the volunteers handed it out at two community churches in Bayou le Batre and Coden.

Green and Kubo were both humbled by the experience. Green recollected, "It's hard to imagine not having food in the pantry and on the table. The people we were helping were hard working folks just like us, but they had simply been deprived of their livelihood. I feel fortunate to have been able to help in this small way."

Dr. Michael Green publishes original research in the International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism

Dr. Michael Green published his research findings in the June 2010 issue of the prestigious International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism. Dr. Green’s research study, titled “Adaptation of Insulin-Resistance Indicators to a Repeated Bout of Eccentric Exercise in Human Skeletal Muscle,” investigated the effects of exercise-induced muscle injury on the insulin resistance experienced following such injury. Participants in the research study underwent two bouts of damaging exercise followed by an assessment of their insulin resistance. The findings of the study have provided a further insight into the ability of skeletal muscle to adapt following exercise.

Dr. Green is currently conducting research into the effects of caffeine on exercise-induced muscle injury, and is also developing a study to examine the effects of anti-inflammatory drugs on the symptoms of muscle injury.

Dr. Robert P. Mathner, Assistant Professor in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion, recently published two articles in the Healthy Child Care Magazine.

The April/May issue of the magazine contained an article titled “When Addictions Impact Your Health” while the June/July issue contains an article titled “Choosing a Home Fitness Program”. The first article discusses addictive behaviors that could affect child care providers, describes the warning signs of these behaviors, as well as the steps needed for child care workers to get help.

The second article discusses the benefits of home fitness programs in comparison to those programs offered at typical health clubs or gyms. In addition, the article discusses strength and cardio-vascular training and how to choose the right fitness program for the child care provider.

KHP Students Gain Practical Experience

Consistent with the KHP mission statement, Drs. Robert Mathner and Christina Martin, Assistant Professors in Sport and Fitness Management, are providing their KHP 4450 (Event Management) students with practical hands on experience by requiring them to plan, organize, and carry out three separate sport and fitness related events.

Last year was the inaugural year for the Troy University KHP Miracle League Charity Golf Tournament and the Children’s Health Field Day, while the Nick Costes 5-K Run was in its 15th year. All proceeds from the events benefit the Troy Miracle League and the KHP Scholarship Fund. In the first year, the events helped raise $1,500 for the Miracle League and $2,500 for the developmental KHP scholarship fund. This year the events raised $750 for the Troy Miracle League and the KHP scholarship fund.

6th Annual Southern Sport Management Conference Held on Troy Campus

The 6th Annual Southern Sport Management Conference at Troy University was held April 14 - 16, 2010. There were a total of 105 participants from 12 different states. Participants were from varied backgrounds, including professionals in sport management, professors, graduate students, and undergraduate students. Many of the guests commented on the high quality of the Troy University facilities.

The graduate class in Sport Marketing designed and conducted the conference, and also raised money and secured donations for food, door prizes, and sponsorships. The experiential component of this graduate class is important to the overall growth and quality of the graduate program.

The College of Health and Human Services and the Southern Sport Management Association presented the second Sport Management Lifetime Achievement Award to Dr. Bill Stier from The State University of New York- Brockport. Dr. Stier has been a leader in the field of sport management with a very distinguished career having authored 359 articles and 24 books. Dr. Stier was impressed with the KHP graduate program and the conference and enjoyed his time in Troy.

The Southern Sport Management Association also presented a Practitioner Achievement Award to Mr. Ben Sutton, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of ISP Sports – America’s Home for College Sports. A highlight of the conference was Mr. Sutton opening the conference.

In addition to the achievement award presentations there were also presentations from professors in sport management and practitioners in the field of sport management. The conference is blends a perfect mix of academics with administrators in the sport management field. Another highlight of the sixth conference was the graduate student presentation luncheon. Six presentations were made by graduate students from the Southeastern United States. The conference continues to grow and we are very pleased with the direction it is heading. It is a great opportunity for students, professors, and professionals in the field of sport management to network and learn.

The Second Annual Children’s Health Field Day (CHFD) took place on March 27th, from 9:00 am – 12:00 pm at the Troy Parks and Recreational Facility (Sportsplex), and was held in conjunction with the cities “Opening Day” festivities for youth baseball and softball. There was no cost to attend the event and it was open to the public. Quiznos provided free lunches to all child participants.

Also, Ideal Graphics provided free CHFD tee shirts for preregistered children followed by those who arrived first. The primary goal of the CHFD was to promote physical activity and healthy choices through education and more importantly, FUN! This year’s events had several activities for the children. Activities included: educational booths, obstacle courses, fitness testing, relay races, Frisbee activities, and a fun zone with inflatables. This year, approximately 250 community children experienced the health field day. We look forward to an exciting event next Spring!

Sponsors for the 2010 CHFD were:

Quiznos

Alpha Tau Omega

BAHA Florida Investments

Southeast Alabama Rural Health Associates

Sanders Lead Company

A You Nique Boutique

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority

Dothan Lanes

Water World

AdventureLand Theme Park

Patricia Lanes

Ideal Graphics

Sticky Frog Signs

Troy Parks and Recreation

Valerie Wynne-Hall Family Dentistry

Nick Costes 5K

Sponsors for the 2010 Nick Costes 5K

Hungry Howies

Sticky Frog Signs

Troy Place Apartments

The Grove Apartments

ScreenTech

Total Parts Plus

Quiznos

Yanni’s

Steakhouse

Water World

Unique Image Pro Care Care

Step N Style

Waffle House

SUBWAY

Troy University KHP/Miracle League Charity Golf Tournament

The Second Annual Troy University/KHP Miracle League Charity Golf Tournament took place on March 29th at Troy Country Club in Troy, AL. Golfers began registration for a four-man scramble at 11:30 am. Registration fees were inclusive of lunch provided by Troy Country Club. Immediately following lunch, golfers began their round of play. A vast array of door prizes were given away including a two-night stay at a beach-front condominium in beautiful Daytona Beach, Florida, a 32-inch flat screen television, a PS3, several clothing items, and much more.

Contests included a hole-in-one ($10,000 cash prize for any hole-in-one), longest drive and closest to the pin. Though no one was able to take advantage of the hole-in-one prize, Mr. Chad Yarborough won the longest drive contest for an award of $75.00. Winners of the tournament included: First Place – Team Nick Faldo – David Runyon, Biake Phelps, David Phelps, and Sheldon Doty and Second Place – Team Walter Hagan – Larry Blakeney, Steve Dennis, Chris Dennis, and Tommy Maln.

Sponsors for the 2010 Troy University KHP/Miracle League Charity Golf Tournament were: for the 2010 CHFD were:

R.D. Ward Construction

River’s Advertising

Jones Veterinary Hospital

Sanders Lead Company

ACTIGRAPH

Keller Williams Realty, Alan Pate

Babb Fitness Systems

The Grove Apartments

Sticky Frog Signs

Yanni’s Steakhouse

Piggly Wiggly

Wal Mart

AIM

Loretta’s University Cleaners

Waffle House

Omega Psi Phi, Inc.

Relocation of the Exercise Physiology Lab Promotes Student Learning and Faculty Research

Wright Hall, home to the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion, now houses a state of the art Exercise Physiology Laboratory. Originally located in the Collegeview Nursing Building, the newly renovated space in Wright Hall is a tremendous boost to the practical, hands-on learning environment for students in the KHP department, in addition to serving as the site conducive for student and faculty research.

In addition to the move to a more central location, the lab has also significantly upgraded its equipment offerings. In particular, students can now perform exercise tests on a high quality treadmill (Woodway Desmo) that can operate at speeds of up to 15 miles per hour, as well as measure gas exchange on a cutting edge metabolic cart (ParvoMedics TrueOne 2400 Metabolic Measurement System). Additionally, the lab houses a CYBEX Extremity System (Cybex 340), which allows for the measurement of skeletal muscle force production in a variety of limbs and body positions.

Research grants awarded by the Faculty Development Committee to Dr. Michael Green and Mr. Tyler Martin have further equipped the lab with equipment and supplies that will be used for research and teaching. Researchers and students now have the capability to remove, process, and store blood, serum, and plasma samples, and subsequently perform analyses for substances such as glucose and cholesterol. Pipettes, electronic scales, centrifuges, and a refrigerator/freezer were all vital supplies purchased with the Faculty Research Grants.

The new laboratory has remained busy, with two major projects already completed, one more underway, and another currently undergoing preliminary pilot work. A study investigating the effects of caffeine on the function of injured skeletal muscle involved participants undergoing a series of demanding exercise tests while supplemented with caffeine or placebo. Data for this study have been presented at a regional conference, with a manuscript currently undergoing peer-review. Another study directly measured the aerobic fitness of participants and attempted to correlate it to their performance on an indirect test of aerobic fitness.

Dr. Michael Green and Mr. Tyler Martin, both Assistant Professors in the Department of Kinesiology and Health promotion specializing in Sport Science, are the driving force behind many of the activities inside the new laboratory.

“We are very fortunate that our Department and College are supportive of the desire of Troy University to advance its research agenda. I cannot express enough how excited I am to be a part of this move, and my hope is that the research and teaching conducted within this laboratory will play a role in that evolution,” expressed Dr. Green.

Mr. Martin echoes these sentiments and is also encouraged to see that “…the degree of undergraduate and graduate student involvement in the lab is growing, and will continue to grow, as more students become aware of the lab’s presence, its resources, and its goals.” Mr. Martin is currently performing research into the effects of Echinacea (a herbal supplement) on red blood cell production and exercise performance.

Dr. Candice Howard-Shaughnessy, Chair of the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion, commented, “Growth in what are considered "hard economic times" is exciting. Dr. Green and Mr. Martin have expanded our lab and are providing exemplary opportunities for our students. I appreciate their dedication and hard work as they are assets to our department, College, and Troy University."

In addition to its teaching and research role, future plans for the Exercise Physiology lab are to offer health and wellness screenings and fitness testing to Troy University students and faculty, with the possibility of extending these services to members of the Troy community.

Students interested in learning more about the Exercise Physiology Lab or volunteering as research participants or lab assistants, are encouraged to contact either Dr. Michael Green (mgreen@troy.edu; 334-670-5732) or Mr. Tyler Martin (tdmartin@troy.edu; 334-808-6291).

Joshua Joseph and Jenean Corcoran win 2010 Nick Costes 5k Road Race

Joshua Joseph and Jenean Corcoran were crowned overall male and female winners of the 2010 Nick Costes 5k Road Race, held Saturday April 10th on the Troy University Campus. Organized by faculty and students of the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion, the annual race is held in honor of the late Nick Costes, former Troy University professor and Olympic marathon runner. Proceeds from the race benefit the Kinesiology and Health Promotion (KHP) Club and the KHP Scholarship Fund. Over $2,000 were raised this year.

Runners were greeted with perfect, sunny conditions which were reflected in this year’s turnout; the race had a total of 147 entries and 115 finishers (both records for this event). Last year the race had a total of 116 entries and 68 finishers, so the event is certainly growing.

Eventual overall winner Joshua Joseph was ahead of his nearest rival (Theron Carter) by 23 seconds. Joseph, 26, ran a swift 18:23 for the 5 kilometer (3.1 mile) course, only 17 seconds behind the course record set by Alec Hamm last year. In the women’s race, 23 year old Jenean Corcoran turned in a strong performance, finishing over a minute faster than defending champion Sharlie Brooks. Brooks was seeking a third consecutive win in the Nick Costes 5k, but her attempt was thwarted by ex-Troy University cross country runner Corcoran who set a new women’s course record of 21.21.

The top three overall male and female finishers were awarded with distinctive Trojan warrior trophies as well as $100, $50, $25 in prize money. In order to retain her collegiate athletic eligibility, Brooks declined her prize money.

We thank all of our sponsors and participants for making this year’s event a success. The 2011 Nick Costes 5k will take place again during early April.

Dr. Louis Tomasi participates in “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition”

Dr. Louis Tomasi, TROY-Ft. Benning/eCampus teacher for the Sport and Fitness Management degrees is seen here participating in an episode of the popular television show “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” in the Columbus, Georgia area. The episode will air during May, 2010.

On February 21, 2010, “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” traveled to Pine Mountain Valley, Georgia (near Columbus), to meet Coach Jeremy and Jennifer Williams, whose son Jacob was diagnosed with Spina Bifida, and Coach Williams (the coach/teacher) was diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s disease. The home they bought 13 years ago was falling apart and was too small to accommodate two disabled family members. In just seven days, team leader Ty Pennington, the design team, and the entire community came together to build Jeremy, 38, Josie, 8, and Jacob, 6, a brand new home, while the Williams family vacationed at Adaptive Sports Center in Crested Butte, Colorado.

Coach J. Williams is the brother-in-law of a TROY-Benning/Columbus Graduate and local teacher. In addition to Dr. Tomasi, two TROY University graduates assisted with the task. They were Coach Morgan Ingram, Athletic Director of Northside HS, and his wife Kacy Ingram, plus Coach Herm Edwards, former NY Jets and KC Chiefs NFL football coach and present ESPN commentator, Michael Oher, NFL football player made famous thru the movie “The Blind Side” who currently plays with the Baltimore Ravens, and Leigh Anne and Sean Tuohy, the family that adopted Oher.

In addition to the Extreme Makeover, the Williams Family will receive an anonymously donated handicap-equipped van and in a last-minute fund drive and receive almost $100,000 to stratify the original mortgage.

The Kinesiology and Health Promotion (KHP) Department is excited about numerous endeavors, one of which is the KHP Club. The KHP Club is the department’s majors club which focuses on developing undergraduate students’ professionalism through service, training, and networking opportunities. The faculty advisors for the club are Dr. Christina Martin and Dr. Brandon Sluder. The 2009-2010 KHP Club was particularly involved in the local and university community.

During the fall of 2009, KHP Club members volunteered to work the annual Peanut Butter 5K run. Also, the club gained service hours working at every Troy University home football game as ticket takers. The group also showed their school spirit by creating a homecoming banner and representing our programs at Trojan Day. Though the KHP Club members enjoy volunteering for community and university events, they are also supportive of other student organizations. In fact, this year’s KHP Club had four participants in the Troy University Journalism Quiz Bowl (the quiz bowl raises money for the journalism department). In addition, the KHP Club had a golf social at Trojan Oaks. This tournament created an enjoyable, fun atmosphere for KHP club members and faculty.

The KHP Club members not only enjoyed the aforementioned service and training activities, but also had the opportunity to network with professionals. Guest speakers who are currently in KHP-related fields are invited to each club meeting. This year, members heard Mrs. Lisa Hayes, Physical Educator; Mr. Dan Smith, Troy Parks and Recreation Director; and Coach Bart Snyder, Goshen High School Athletic Director, share their field experiences. Also, this year’s members made an unforgettable trip to Talladega Super Speedway. This trip allowed members to explore the facility, go behind the scenes to grasp and understanding day to day NASCAR operations and further, network with Talladega Super Speedway’s President, Rick Humphrey; Director of Sales and Marketing, George Dennis; and Manager of the International Motorsports Hall of Fame, Bruce Ramey.

Several students were recognized as outstanding club members at the 2010 KHP Departmental Banquet. Out of 116 club members, Ms. Gabby Williams and Ms. Ashleigh Waddail were selected as Outstanding KHP Club Members. Further, 13 students were selected for dedicating exceptional service to the club: Brittany Hawkins, Chris Blanton, Daniel Seiselmyer, Takuya Fujii, Tiffany Rhodes, Eriko Kubo, Jonah McWaters, Kimberly Tompkins, Marina Coleman, Maurice Bradley, Wanda Andress, Gabby Williams, and Sara Lee.

The KHP Club closed out the 2009-2010 academic year with a blast! Members celebrated the year with an outdoor barbecue, fishing and “intense” kickball match. The KHP Club is excited about next year’s endeavors!

Dr. Michael Martinez, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion, and Dr. Damon Andrew, Dean, College of Health and Human Services, recently attended the 13th Annual Sport Entertainment & Venues Tomorrow (SEVT) Conference, which took place in Columbia, SC, between November 11-13.

Numerous industry executives, sport management professors, and students convened to discuss and present matters important to the sport management profession. Sport management research was presented by both practitioners and academics from all over the world.

Dr. Martinez conducted two oral presentations entitled, “Employee Brand Commitment in NCAA Division I College Athletics: A Path Analysis of Internal Marketing Practices and Their Influence on Organizational Commitment” and “From Scholars to Fans: Adopting a Social Media Platform to Promote Academic Research.” Dr. Andrew conducted an oral presentation entitled, “Organizational Justice Pertaining to Resource Distribution in Intercollegiate Athletics: The Perspective of Coaches” and also moderated an executive symposium entitled, “Have You Been Served? Customer-Centric Services as a Marketing Tool."

Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion Faculty Attend the 24th Annual Conference of the North American Society for Sport Management (NASSM)

Dr. Fred Green, Associate Professor in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion, Drs. Christina Martin and Robert Mathner, Assistant Professors in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion, and Dr. Damon Andrew, Dean, College of Health and Human Services, recently attended the 24th Annual Conference of the North American Society for Sport Management (NASSM) which took place in Columbia, SC between May 27-30. Over 300 professionals and 150 students convened to discuss and present matters important to the sport management profession. Research in the sport management profession was presented by both practitioners and academics from all over the world.

In addition to the above two presentations, Dr. Andrew is also currently serving a two-year term as Member at Large on the NASSM Executive Council. As a result, he participated in several Executive Council meetings during the conference to handle the business of the organization.

Dr. J. Brandon Sluder, Assistant Professor in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion, recently published in the May issue of the prestigious Journal of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance (JOPERD), the official journal of the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation & Dance (AAHPERD). Dr. Sluder was the primary author of a paper titled “Using Sport Education to Teach an Autonomy-Supportive Fitness Curriculum.” His collaborators on the manuscript were Dr. Alice M. Buchanan (Auburn University) and Dr. Oleg A. Sinelnikov (University of Alabama). The article describes an autonomy-supportive fitness curriculum for fifth graders that was developed and implemented using the sport education model (Siedentop, 1994). The article addresses the procedures that made the curriculum successful and offers recommendations for how teachers can design their own obstacle-course fitness unit.

Dr. Fred Green, Associate Professor in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion and Coordinator of the Sport Management Program, was recently elected to serve on the Executive Committee for Division 1A Faculty Athletic Representatives. The Faculty Athletic Representative (FAR) acts as an official and formal liaison between the Troy faculty and athletic department, and adopts the unique position of promoting excellence in both academics and athletics for all student-athletes. The FAR works closely with the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), coaches, and administrators on improving academic performance of student athletes, and as a result helps maintain the integrity of Troy University’s academic and athletic programs. Serving on the Executive Committee will allow Dr. Green to represent the interests of Troy University and the Sun Belt athletic conference nationally with other representatives from Division 1 football bowl subdivision institutions.

Alec Hamm and Sharlie Brooks win 2009 Nick Costes 5k Road Race

Alec Hamm and Sharlie Brooks were the overall male and female winners of the 2009 Nick Costes 5k Road Race, held Saturday April 4th on the Troy University Campus. Organized by faculty and students of the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion, the annual race is held in honor of the late Nick Costes, former Troy University professor and Olympic marathon runner. Proceeds from the race benefit the Kinesiology and Health Promotion (KHP) Club along with the establishment of a KHP Scholarship Fund. Over $1,300 was raised.

Runners were greeted with perfect, sunny conditions which were reflected in this year’s turnout; the race had a total of 116 entries and 68 finishers (both records for this event).

Eventual overall winner Alec Hamm, a member of the Troy University cross country team, outpaced his nearest rival Chris Anderson by over 2 minutes, running a swift 18:06 for the 5 kilometer (3.1 mile) course. This time is a new course record; itself over a minute faster than last year’s winning time. In the women’s race, fourteen year old Sharlie Brooks turned in a fantastic run against her older competitors. Looking strong all the way through the finish line, Brooks recorded a time of 22:23, a whole minute faster than her winning time in last year’s wet and windy conditions. Brooks, now a two-time winner of the event, was followed across the line 32 seconds later by 18 year old Meaghan Biggio.

The top overall male and female finishers were awarded with distinctive Trojan warrior trophies, with the top three overall male and female finishers also receiving $100, $50, $25 in prize money. In order to retain their collegiate athletic eligibility, both Hamm and Brooks declined their prize money.

We thank all of our sponsors and participants for making this year’s event a success. The 2010 Nick Costes 5k will take place again during early April.

Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion Faculty Attend the 24th Annual Conference of the North American Society for Sport Management (NASSM)

Dr. Fred Green, Associate Professor in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion, Drs. Christina Martin and Robert Mathner, Assistant Professors in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion, and Dr. Damon Andrew, Dean, College of Health and Human Services, recently attended the 24th Annual Conference of the North American Society for Sport Management (NASSM) which took place in Columbia, SC between May 27-30. Over 300 professionals and 150 students convened to discuss and present matters important to the sport management profession. Research in the sport management profession was presented by both practitioners and academics from all over the world.

In addition to the above two presentations, Dr. Andrew is also currently serving a two-year term as Member at Large on the NASSM Executive Council. As a result, he participated in several Executive Council meetings during the conference to handle the business of the organization.

Dr. J. Brandon Sluder, Assistant Professor in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion, recently published in the May issue of the prestigious Journal of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance (JOPERD), the official journal of the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation & Dance (AAHPERD). Dr. Sluder was the primary author of a paper titled “Using Sport Education to Teach an Autonomy-Supportive Fitness Curriculum.” His collaborators on the manuscript were Dr. Alice M. Buchanan (Auburn University) and Dr. Oleg A. Sinelnikov (University of Alabama). The article describes an autonomy-supportive fitness curriculum for fifth graders that was developed and implemented using the sport education model (Siedentop, 1994). The article addresses the procedures that made the curriculum successful and offers recommendations for how teachers can design their own obstacle-course fitness unit.

Dr. Fred Green, Associate Professor in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion and Coordinator of the Sport Management Program, was recently elected to serve on the Executive Committee for Division 1A Faculty Athletic Representatives. The Faculty Athletic Representative (FAR) acts as an official and formal liaison between the Troy faculty and athletic department, and adopts the unique position of promoting excellence in both academics and athletics for all student-athletes. The FAR works closely with the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), coaches, and administrators on improving academic performance of student athletes, and as a result helps maintain the integrity of Troy University’s academic and athletic programs. Serving on the Executive Committee will allow Dr. Green to represent the interests of Troy University and the Sun Belt athletic conference nationally with other representatives from Division 1 football bowl subdivision institutions.

Alec Hamm and Sharlie Brooks win 2009 Nick Costes 5k Road Race

Alec Hamm and Sharlie Brooks were the overall male and female winners of the 2009 Nick Costes 5k Road Race, held Saturday April 4th on the Troy University Campus. Organized by faculty and students of the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion, the annual race is held in honor of the late Nick Costes, former Troy University professor and Olympic marathon runner. Proceeds from the race benefit the Kinesiology and Health Promotion (KHP) Club along with the establishment of a KHP Scholarship Fund. Over $1,300 was raised.

Runners were greeted with perfect, sunny conditions which were reflected in this year’s turnout; the race had a total of 116 entries and 68 finishers (both records for this event).

Eventual overall winner Alec Hamm, a member of the Troy University cross country team, outpaced his nearest rival Chris Anderson by over 2 minutes, running a swift 18:06 for the 5 kilometer (3.1 mile) course. This time is a new course record; itself over a minute faster than last year’s winning time. In the women’s race, fourteen year old Sharlie Brooks turned in a fantastic run against her older competitors. Looking strong all the way through the finish line, Brooks recorded a time of 22:23, a whole minute faster than her winning time in last year’s wet and windy conditions. Brooks, now a two-time winner of the event, was followed across the line 32 seconds later by 18 year old Meaghan Biggio.

The top overall male and female finishers were awarded with distinctive Trojan warrior trophies, with the top three overall male and female finishers also receiving $100, $50, $25 in prize money. In order to retain their collegiate athletic eligibility, both Hamm and Brooks declined their prize money.

We thank all of our sponsors and participants for making this year’s event a success. The 2010 Nick Costes 5k will take place again during early April.

Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion Issue a Call for Papers for the 2009 Southern Sport Management Conference

The Southern Sport Management Conference aims to provide Sport Management scholars, practitioners, and students with current industry trends and issues via academic and professional presentations. This conference seeks to blend research and experience from the academician and the practitioner.

Scholars, practitioners, and students are invited to submit abstracts for the 2009 Southern Sport Management Conference hosted by Troy University on April 16th-17th. In honor of the fifth anniversary of the Southern Sport Management Conference, the conference organizing committee, in conjunction with Troy University's College of Health and Human Services, has established a Lifetime Achievement Award. The purpose of the award is to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to the academic field of Sport Management. The 2009 Sport Management Scholar Lifetime Achievement Award recipient is Dr. Packianathan Chelladurai of The Ohio State University. Please join us at the conference to celebrate Dr. Chelladurai's great achievements.

Dr. Robert P. Mathner Travels to Australia to Finalize Study Abroad Program

Dr. Robert P. Mathner, Assistant Professor of Sport and Fitness Management, traveled to Australia this past July to begin the final phases of gathering information for a proposed study abroad program for Troy University students. Bond University, located in Gold Coast, Queensland, has offered to partner with Troy University for a study abroad program. The proposed program of study to start in the summer of 2009 would offer Troy students the opportunity to take six hours of classes over a 4-5 week session. Both classes would be sport management undergraduate level classes with one class being team taught by both a Bond University professor and a Troy University professor. Students would have the opportunity to experience the wonderful and rich Australian culture as well as visit several Australian sport venues and sporting events. Look for more information to come in the months to follow or feel free to contact Dr. Mathner for additional information.

Dr. Fred Green Appointed as the New Faculty Athletic Representative (FAR)

Dr. Fred Green, Associate Professor in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion and Coordinator of the Sport Management Program, was recently appointed by Chancellor Jack Hawkins as Faculty Athletic Representative (FAR). Dr. Green replaces Dr. Lance Tatum, Dean of the College of Education, who served as the FAR for over 8 years. The FAR acts as an official and formal liaison between the Troy faculty and athletic department, and adopts the unique position of promoting excellence in both academics and athletics for all student-athletes. The FAR works closely with the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), coaches, and administrators on improving academic performance of student athletes, and as a result helps maintain the integrity of Troy University’s academic and athletic programs. Dr. Green stated, “It is both an honor and a privilege to be selected by Chancellor Hawkins for this position. I will work very hard to continue the success that has been established by Dr. Hawkins and Dr. Tatum and to represent Troy University in the most positive manner.”

Dr. Christina Martin is a new faculty member in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion in the area of Sport and Fitness Management. Dr. Martin started at Troy University on August 1, 2008 after recently obtaining her doctorate in Human Performance and Recreation with an emphasis in Administration and Teaching from The University of Southern Mississippi. Dr. Martin is a 2001 and 2002 graduate of Mississippi State University, earning a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science Degree in Physical Education with respective emphasis areas in Fitness Management and Sport Administration. Dr. Martin’s research interests include examining academic protocols for Sport Management programs and evaluating methods of assessment used by athletic marketing directors. Dr. Martin also has an interest in the cross-disciplinary area of Health and Physical Education; particularly, she has pursued research in the area of physical activity knowledge as it relates to physical activity behavior in adolescents.

As a doctoral student, she has had many valuable experiences. She was awarded The University of Southern Mississippi’s Doctoral Dissertation Grant Award in the amount of $500 and was named the School of Human Performance and Recreation’s Outstanding Doctoral Student. As a doctoral candidate she had the opportunity to evaluate grant projects, totaling over $56,999, participate in scholarly research and professional presentations, as well as teach lower-level and upper-level courses at The University of Southern Mississippi and Mississippi State University. Dr. Martin has moved to Troy with her husband, Ty, and her son Tyler.

Mr. Tyler Martin is a new faculty member in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion as an Assistant Professor of Physical Education and Sport-Fitness Management. Mr. Martin started at Troy University on August 1, 2008 and is currently pursuing his doctorate in Human Performance with an emphasis in Exercise Physiology from the School of Human Performance and Recreation at The University of Southern Mississippi. Prior to beginning his doctoral career, Mr. Martin was an Instructor in the School of Human Performance and Recreation at The University of Southern Mississippi. Martin is a 2003 graduate of Mississippi State University earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education with a concentration in Fitness Management. He earned a Master of Science degree in Human Performance with an emphasis in Exercise Science from The University of Southern Mississippi in 2005. Additionally, Mr. Martin earned the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) certification through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) in 2006. Mr. Martin’s research interests are related to nutritional ergogenic aids, exercise metabolism, and nutrition for enhancing performance.

While pursuing his undergraduate career, Martin was a scholar-athlete at the University of Florida (1997-1998) and Mississippi State University (1999-2000). While at the University of Florida he had the opportunity to compete in the 1998 College World Series. Following his career at Mississippi State University, Martin was drafted by the Texas Rangers in 2000 and in July of 2002, Martin was awarded Minor League Player of the Month from TOPP’S. Martin and his wife, Christina, have a son, Tyler. The Troy University family is excited to have Mr. Martin as a new faculty member on the Troy University Campus.

Mr. J. Brandon Sluder is a new faculty member in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion in the area of Health and Physical Education. Mr. Sluder started at Troy University on August 1, 2008 shortly after completing his doctoral course work and comprehensive exams at Auburn University in Kinesiology-Pedagogy. As a Ph.D. candidate, Mr. Sluder will complete his doctoral degree upon dissertation defense early this semester. Prior to returning to Auburn to pursue his Ph.D., Mr. Sluder was the Associate Director (Division chair) of the Health, Physical Education, and Exercise Science department at The University of Alabama in Huntsville (2003-2004). Mr. Sluder also obtained a Master of Science degree in Health and Human Performance-Pedagogy at Auburn in 2003. While completing his masters degree at Auburn University Mr. Sluder was also the men’s assistant track and field coach for multi events. Auburn’s men’s track and field team finished 2nd in the nation in the 2003 Outdoor NCAA National Championships. From 2001-2003 he assisted in the development of multiple SEC champions, NCAA All-Americans, and NCAA Champions. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education from The University of South Carolina in 2001. Prior to transferring to the University of South Carolina Mr. Sluder was a collegiate track and field standout at the Citadel in Charleston, SC. He was team captain as a sophomore and held records in cross country and the outdoor distance medley relay in track and field. Mr. Sluder’s teaching and research interests are related to youth fitness in physical education.

Dr. Mathner joins the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion

Dr. Mathner is a new faculty member in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion in the area of Sport Management. He started at Troy on August 1, 2007, after spending four years as the Assistant Athletics Director at the University of Central Florida (UCF). He coordinated the sports medicine department, equipment operations, men's and women's soccer, women's rowing and women's softball. Mathner has also worked in Florida State's compliance office for two years. Prior to his arrival at UCF, he was the Director of Athletic Compliance at Syracuse University. Before his job in New York, Mathner was the University of Montana's first compliance coordinator and for three years he organized and managed the athletics compliance operation of the university and athletics department. Mathner is a 1987 graduate of the University of Southern Mississippi, earning a degree in business administration. He earned his master's degree in sports administration from the University of Florida in 1990. In 1996, he earned his doctorate from Florida State in physical education with specialization in sports management. Mathner and his wife, Dawn, have three children, Amber, Kade and Kyla. The Troy University family is excited to have Dr. Mathner as new faculty on the Troy Campus.

4th Annual Southern Sport Management Conference a Resounding Success

The 4th Annual Southern Sport Management Conference at Troy University was held April 17 and 18, 2008. There were 97 total participants from 8 different states. The participants were varied including professionals in sport management, college professors, graduate students, and undergraduate students. Many of the guests commented on the high quality of the Troy University facilities. The conference was designed and conducted by graduate students in the Sport Marketing course taught by Dr. Fred Green, Associate Professor in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion. Students also raised money and secured donations for food, door prizes, and sponsorships. The experiential component of this graduate class is important to the overall growth and quality of the Sport and Fitness Management graduate program.

The conference had two keynote speakers; Mr. Tony Johnson, Southeast Regional Director of Strategic Marketing Affiliates, Inc., who is the representative for Troy University in all athletic licensing endeavors, and Mrs. Sherrie Myers, Owner Operator of the Montgomery Biscuits and six other minor league sport franchises/companies.

The conference theme was enhancing careers in sport management. Many of the speakers discussed numerous ways students could increase their chances of becoming employed in sport management. Nine other professional speakers made presentations; including Mr. Robert Cole, AG Edwards Financial Consultant and Mr. Paul Winn, Director of the Blue Gray Tennis Tournament (please visit the SSM Conference Website for information on the rest of our speakers). The feedback from conference participants has been extremely positive with most stating how informative and enjoyable the conference was. Dr. Fred Green looks forward to working with Troy University and future students in making the Southern Sport Management Conference even more attractive and successful.

Dr. Michael Green presents at the 2008 ACSM Annual Meeting in Indianapolis, IN

Dr. Michael Green recently presented to a large gathering at the annual meeting of the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) held in Indianapolis, IN. Participating in a Featured Science Session titled “Dietary Protein and Carbohydrate Interactions During and After Exercise” Dr. Green presented the findings of his research investigating exercise-induced muscle injury and insulin resistance. Featured Science Sessions combine keynote addresses from prolific researchers with presentations of original research by developing researchers. Sandwiched between presentations by Drs. Martin Gibala (McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada) and Luc van Loon (Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands), Dr. Green was honored to be able to present at such a prestigious international conference.

The 2009 ACSM Annual Meeting takes place in Seattle, Washington. Housed within the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion, the new Exercise Physiology Laboratory (currently undergoing renovation in Wright Hall) will provide the venue for future research into the effects of exercise-induced muscle and altered metabolism.

Will Browder and Shanie Brooks win 2008 Nick Costes 5k Road Race

Will Browder and Shanie Brooks were the overall male and female winners of the 2008 Nick Costes 5k Road Race, held April 5th on the Troy University Campus. Organized by faculty and students of the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion, the annual race is held in honor of the late Nick Costes, a past Troy University professor and Olympian. Proceeds from the race benefit the Kinesiology and Health Promotion (KHP) Club.

Although runners were greeted with windy and wet conditions this did little to dampen the turnout. The race had over 60 entries (a record for recent years), and a total of 42 finishers. After a close battle throughout the race with eventual second place finisher Adam McPherson, leading the field across the line was twenty four year old Troy University student Will Browder. In the final mile of the race Browder was able to distance himself from McPherson by 12 seconds, finishing in a time of 19:24. In the women’s race, thirteen year old Shanie Brooks turned in a fantastic run against her older competitors. Looking strong all the way through the finish line, Brooks recorded a time of 23:22. Brooks was followed across the line 20 seconds later by Troy University student Sara Jackson.

The top three overall male and female finishers were awarded with distinctive Trojan warrior trophies. Browder and Brooks were each rewarded with steak dinners for two donated by the newly opened Santa Fe Cattle Company.

T-shirt sponsors for the 2008 Nick Costes Road Race were Pike County Banking Association, Sanders Lead Company, Inc., Champion Sports Medicine, The UPS Store, and Troy Animal Clinic. Course beverages were supplied by the Troy University Department of Athletic Training, and finish line refreshments were donated by Wal-Mart. We thank all of our sponsors and participants for making this year’s event a success. Next year’s race will take place during April.

Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion Annual Awards Banquet

The 2007-2008 KHP Departmental Awards ceremony and banquet took place on April 10th in conjunction with the Phi Epsilon Kappa induction ceremony. A total of six awards were handed out as voted on by the faculty. Recognition was also given to two students who received their award at the Honors Convocation the following week.

The KHP Department congratulates all award winners and applauds them for their dedication to their profession.

Outstanding Major of the Year
Rawia Elsisi

Outstanding Major in Health and Physical Education
Virginia Barber

Outstanding Major in Physical Education
Gary Banks

Outstanding Major in Sport and Fitness Management
Mark Libs

Sam Roe Award
Fred Pelle

Outstanding Service Award
Mr. Clarence Taylor

Honors Convocation Awards (awarded to a senior with the highest GPA in their area)

Academic Honor Award in Health and Physical Education
Teresa Herring

Academic Honor Award in Sport and Fitness Management
Rawia Elsisi

Delta Sigma Chapter of Phi Epsilon Kappa Initiates Eight Students

The Delta Sigma Chapter of the Phi Epsilon Kappa Professional Fraternity held the 2008 Initiation Ceremony on April 10, 2008. Eight new members were initiated in a ceremony attended by faculty, friends, and family. Following a welcome speech by Dr. Candice Howard-Shaughnessy, the initiation ceremony was conducted by officers of Delta Sigma Chapter.

The KHP Department congratulates this year’s initiates and welcomes them to the Phi Epsilon Kappa Professional Fraternity.

On April 14th Ms. Cathy Flynn and members of Methods of Teaching Dance (KHP 2252), Practicum in Dance Production and Performance (KHP 4489), and Ballroom Dance (KHP 1134) entertained students and invited guests with “A Taste of Dance,” a showcase and brief history of various styles of dance in the United States. There was also a special guest performance by Ms. Flynn’s parents, Al Meltzer and Charlotte Flynn-Meltzer.

Dr. Michael Green is a new faculty member in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion in the area of Exercise Science. Dr. Green started at Troy University on January 1, 2008 shortly after obtaining his doctorate in Sport Science from Georgia State University. Dr. Green is a 2000 and 2002 graduate of Troy University, earning both Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Sport and Fitness Management. Dr. Green’s research and teaching interests are related to endurance performance, exercise-induced muscle injury, and carbohydrate metabolism. While a student at Troy University, Green represented the cross country and track and field teams. Green won 9 individual conference titles, and in 1998 became the first Troy University athlete to qualify for the NCAA Division 1 Cross Country Championships, a feat he repeated in 2000. Green’s Troy University school record in the 3000m still stands. Green moved back to Troy with his wife, Susan, a 2001 graduate of the Troy University marketing program. The Troy University family is excited to have Dr. Green as new faculty on the Troy Campus.

Joyce Sorrell Retires

Joyce Sorrell is a native of Ripley, TN, and is a graduate of Tennessee-Martin. She came to Troy in 1968 to teach in our department, and directed the women’s intramural program. Her efforts were the cornerstone for the development of the women’s athletic program. Joyce was the co-founder of the AAIAW, and was a member of the national and regional women’s basketball committee. Joyce is a pedagogy specialist and talented in teaching numerous sport methodologies. She was the innovator of clogging in Troy, beginning with the Troy Clogging Company, made up of Troy University students, faculty and the Troy community. One career achievement included the championship Dixie Darlins dance team. She is known for her community involvement and her ability to motivate her students to be involved. Joyce has been a valued member of the Troy family for over 40 years, and recently retired on June 1, 2007. She has been truly student-dedicated, always striving to bring out the best in everyone. She will be sincerely missed!